by B.Styled

What to Wear on College Tours: The Do’s and Don’ts

Many of us have spent lots of time on college tours recently.  I’m not going to get into the insanity of the entire college selection process, I’ll let you experience and enjoy that on your own pocket option for pc download.

But before I talk about the important stuff like what to wear, I need to get one thing off my chest.  Can  admissions people please train their adorable, enthusiastic tour guides to replace the word “free” with the phrase “included with your tuition.”  If one more perky tour guide exclaims with pride that things like printing, laundry and shuttle rides are FREE, I think my head may explode.

If you’re in this fun stage or approaching it, I highly recommend you visit and subscribe to the blog, Grown and Flown.   It’s by far the best site for the most salient, and entertaining information and support for all things teen, college, and “empty-ing nest” related.  Their tagline is  “parenting never ends”..  Ain’t that the truth.  www..grownandflown.com.

Now, on to the truly important topic here:

WHAT TO WEAR ON COLLEGE TOURS WITH YOUR 16-18 YEAR OLD (easily embarrassed) CHILD

  1. DO wear comfortable shoes.  Hands down, the most important tip.   My go-to are my favorite Stan Smith sneakers.  Neutral nike-type sneaks work too.  Low heeled comfortable booties or your favorite neutral ballet flats are good choices as well.  Needless to say….not a time to break out the heels.
  2. DO plan on weather changes.  Especially if you’re traveling, wear layers, bring an umbrella, and have a neutral jacket on hand.  An olive cargo jacket is on trend without being trendy…and you’ll blend in with the scenery which is your goal.   Another go-to is  my all-time favorite denim jacket – it’s just cool enough without screaming “I’m 50 years old and want to look like a teenager.”
  3. On that note:  DON’T dress for fashion.  Yes, you can be fashionable, but trust me, your kid doesn’t want you to draw undo attention to yourself.  Despite the fact that you raised and nurtured this child  for 18 years (and are footing the bill) it’s not about you.  😉
  4. DON’T expect your almost adult child to carry their own sh*t.  Seriously though, carry a light-weight tote to hold your sunglasses, umbrella, an extra layer —  AND all the glossy hand out materials (that must cost these schools a fortune, and no one ever looks at again because it’s all available on-line).
  5. DO bring a scarf to add some personality to your neutral look.  Scarves serve multiple purposes including https://pocketoption.in/download-app adding some warmth, keeping your head dry in unexpected downpours, and covering the stain created when you dump your coffee on yourself while driving to said tour.
  6. DO enjoy this special time with your “child” as they are held captive  with no easy escape plan.  It can be a stressful time filled with conflict and tough decisions, but it can and should also be  a wonderful chance for some rare one-on-one time.
  7. Final Tip:  Stuff a “free” cookie in your mouth when you feel tempted to express a preference for a particular school.   Learn this phrase and repeat it over and over when you’re tempted to give your opinion:   “What did YOU think??    At first you’ll  be met with a blank stare or something meaningless like,  “it was nice”.  But eventually (we pray) they will figure it out and end up somewhere right for them.  And then (we pray) they’ll get a job, and not live in the basement.  For too long.

Have fun and #justgetdressed😉

~Beth

If you are looking to simplify and improve your spring wardrobe, and make getting dressed easier and less irritating (and maybe even fun), then I invite you to check out my Spring Style System.  The program launched in March and the daily outfit email and private Facebook group have ended, but all other materials  – clickable shopping catalogs, capsule wardrobe lists and outfit formulas  – are included at a discounted rate of $19 with code almostsummer.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFO, AND HERE TO SIGN UP!

by B.Styled

Your Spring Dress Strategy

 

Technically Spring is here…. or if you live in the Northeast – it’s going to be here…someday…. hopefully.  Question:  What are you going to do when the invites start rolling in for all those Spring events….weddings, confirmations, communions, bar mitzvahs, graduations, etc, etc???

Do you think “crap, what am I going to wear?”  Or do you have a small but fabulous collection of dresses you can rely on?  Having a dress on hand when the invite arrives, is, as my mom would say, “like money in the bank”.

A basic rule to remember when it comes to dresses is that it’s impossible very hard to find the perfect dress when you’re looking for it, especially under a time crunch.   A better approach is first to weed out the dresses taking up space in your closet that you would never reach for, and give them a new home.

Next, always  keep an eye out for dresses you love, and when you see something, and it fits the following criteria, GRAB it.

B.Styled’s Criteria for Dress Buying (even if you don’t have an event — yet):

Impact:   It jumps out at you at the store or on the website.   Just like a piece of art, you’ll know it when you see it, and when you have that visceral reaction,  get the credit card out.  Trust me, you’ll thank me.

Fit and Flattery:  The dress fits and flatters your figure today.  And by today, I mean, now.  Not your figure from last year,  or the one you plan to have next year.  Focus on the current https://pocketoption.in/download-app,, fabulous YOU and highlighting all your best assets.

Timelessness:  Steer clear of trends that won’t make sense a month, let alone a year from now.  Classic shapes, colors and patterns are the way to go.  Know which shapes best suit your figure (I know a personal stylist who can help with that;)   Styles like sheaths, shifts and fit & flares are never going  out of style.  (Just google Jackie O or Audrey Hepburn.)  Trendy looks such as one shoulder, cold shoulder or cut outs are fun and have their place, but these are not your “go-to’s”

.CLICK HERE for a shopping catalog of some of my favorite dresses in four common occasion categories.  Note that many of the dresses will work for many types of events – the hallmark of great dress.

Party: When you’re going out and want to take it up a notch.

Graduation:  I for one, have high School graduations this June and next, and these dresses work for that kind of daytime event.

Weddings: ‘Tis the season!

Easter, Communions, Baptisms.:  And any other more “lady-like” type of occasions.

Casual:  Everyday dresses that are comfortable and versatile and can be worn for many casual events.

I’ve also included some shoe suggestions.  You’ll see a lot of neutral shoes here.  Why? Because they will work with most dresses…So when you find a pair that you love and that your FEET like.. do not hesitate.  Buy them.

Of course, I’m here to help if you need specific suggestions or help – just send me a note, or go fill out a new client profile.  This allows you to start building your own virtual closet like this example.   I have priced my services in a way to make personal styling, whether virtually or in person, accessible and non-intimidating. My clients find that they actually end up spending less, yet have more to wear, after working with me.  Click here for info on my services, and to learn about my Spring Style System.

Now, go #justgetdressed and have a great weekend!

Cheers,

Beth

by B.Styled

My Favorite GREEN Picks!

Happy St. Paddy’s Day!  Today we are all little Irish and I wanted to share my favorite green picks.  Green is a fun color to add to your wardrobe whether it be in a top or an accessory…Here are some ideas….Click HERE to shop the links!

Looking at these items makes me want it all…and I never thought I was a “green” person.  What a fabulous color to add to your looks this SPRING!

Speaking of SPRING…How’s your wardrobe looking?  Does it need some help?  We are having a ball over in the Spring Style System group.  I think everyone in the program would attest that its value is FAR greater than the cost.  You’ll  have easy access to my personal styling without haven’t to leave home, and build a fabulous, functional wardrobe, starting with what you already own.

Click Here to learn more and sign up! 

Happy St. Patrick’s Day and have a great weekend!

Cheers,

Beth

by B.Styled

Break the Style Rut: The Suit

I’m a huge fan of separates but let’s face it, some occasions and professions call for an actual, grown-up suit.  It’s a good staple to have in your closet, at the ready (think:  meetings, interviews, and even funerals).

Most offices and lifestyles don’t require a suit every day, so  if you can get more fun and mileage out of your investment, all the better.  Remember, my mantra…versatility!

I found this navy suit at Banana Republic (they’re having a sale right now too…code:  BRFAMILY).  It has tiny dots on it, so it’s updated and different, but can still be treated like a solid navy suit.

Let’s see how this closet workhorse can give you lots of different options – from business, to casual, to “chic In-between”.    Maybe you already have a navy suit and you can use these ideas to breathe new life into it.

Wear it as a matching suit with a simple white shell and add a cool necklace and accessories.  I love the idea of a splash of unexpected color in the shoe –  shows personality and polish.

Shop this Look:

Navy Jacket    Navy Pants   White Shell    Statement Necklace    Satchel    Ring    Nude Pump   

Yellow Shoe    Navy Pump

Wear the jacket with jeans and a t-shirt and mix & match your shoes and accessories.

Shop this Look:

Navy Jacket    White Tee    Jeans    Scarf    Ring   Sneakers   Yellow Shoes   Espadrilles 

Create a chic look that can go dressy OR casual.  This pattern shirt is cool with the dots,  and the blush cardigan is a great “3rd piece” that ties it all together.   Too warm for a sweater?  This outfit stands on its own too.

Shop this Look:

Navy Pants   Print Top    Cardigan    Statement Necklace   Ring    Bangles    Blush Lace up Flats   Navy Pumps

Rose Gold Clutch

 

Need help with your Spring Wardrobe?  Join the B.Styled Spring Style System and we’ll get your closet and wardrobe in shape so you can look and feel great every day.  Click HERE for more info about the program or watch my FB Live video below!

CLICK HERE to join!

Thanks for reading, have a great weekend……and #justgetdressed.

xo, Beth

 

by B.Styled

B.Styled Spring Style System

Build a mix-and-match wardrobe of pieces that make it easy to look great every day.  The B.Styled Spring Style System   gives you everything you need to feel put together, gain confidence in your style and learn to make the most of your closet.  It is much more than a “Style Challenge” — it’s a Style SYSTEM that will help you simply….#justgetdressed.

You will receive a shopping list for EACH step.  You will go to your closet first and find as many of the items on the lists as possible before filling in by shopping!

You will also receive access to 4 frequently updated, clickable shopping catalogs with numerous options for each item on the list, including work-appropriate and casual options.  I make sure to include various price points as well as petite and plus size options.  This is a “living” catalog…I update it and add to it throughout the season based on the needs of members. 

 Finally, you will receive 14 (plus) OUTFIT FORMULAS drawn from the lists, showing you exactly how to combine the various items into innumerable unique looks that work for you and your lifestyle, whether it be professional, casual, or something in-between.

All members will also have complete access to the private B.Styled Spring Style System Facebook Group.  I am extremely active within this group, providing advice, tips and support, including live videos.  This group is an invaluable source for friendship, fun and style support and many members call it by far the best part!

As a special BONUS, I am including free access to the B.Styled Closet Cleanse Program   (a $19.99 value)…and we will be doing the cleanse TOGETHER in the private Facebook group in the days leading up to March 20th.  Everything is easier with friends so let’s tackle this job (or refresh it if you’ve already done it) and be ready for SPRING!

All this for only $49…Less than that impulse buy I won’t let you make;)

In addition, purchasers of the Spring Style System will have the option of buying the B.Styled Virtual Styling Hour at a discounted rate of $50 (regular price $75).  This gives you lifetime access to your own “Virtual Closet” and one hour of my personal styling services, dedicated to your specific needs.  Click HERE for info on the Virtual Closet and Styling Hour.

   CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP

Let’s get our closets cleansed and our Spring Wardrobe built from the ground up…together!

I hope you’ll join us….and simply…#justgetdressed  😉

xo, Beth

by B.Styled

28 Day Shopping Detox

If there’s anything you’ve been dying to go out and buy or order on-line, you have about 7 hours to get it done, because Midnight on February 1 marks the start of my 28 Day Shopping Detox.

Yes, you heard me….. No buying any** clothing or accessories all month (notice I did pick the shortest month of the year.)  Instead, we’re going to:

by B.Styled

Keeping it Simple and Versatile

My last two Facebook Live videos were all about ways to make getting dressed easier by keeping it simple, and focusing on versatility.  

For those of you non-Facebookers,  HERE is a link to all my Facebook Live videos.    If you know me, you know I can be….verbose…so use your fast-forward button liberally;)

On that note, I had an idea for a new Facebook Live feature called B.Styled Quickies – a series of 1 minute live videos. I’ll be sharing easy tips and tricks,  and in the process, I’ll learn how to get my point across in a minute or less 😉  You can catch them by going  to my B.Styled Facebook page and following me. They’ll be starting next week and will usually air at noon EST.

The other thing going on over on Facebook is my free, private, #justgetdressed group.  This is where members can ask questions, post outfit pictures (that no one else sees) get advice and share tips.  CLICK HERE and ask to join.  It’s a fantastic group of fun, supportive and all-around awesome women, and is a great source of help, support and laughs.

Now, back to my tips for keeping it simple and focusing on versatility:

  1.  KEEP IT SIMPLE:

This was last Friday when I had meetings during the day and went out with friends at night.  Did I change my entire outfit?  Nope.  I changed into jeans and the same color top as the dress — everything else (including my favorite boots) stayed the same.  I was out the door in 2 minutes.  Don’t reinvent the wheel!  Keep it simple!

2.  Focus on VERSATILITY!

This sweater converts from a cowl neck to an off-the-shoulder and can be worn out, or with a half tuck.  Versatile!  My two-tone necklace features gold and silver and can be worn long or doubled up.  Versatile!  In the video, I also demonstrate the wonders of this amazing $48 crossbody bag that can be worn 4 ways.   Click here to order from FlirtyFinds!

The next time you’re considering whether to buy something, ask yourself if it’s versatile.  Don’t buy something because it “goes with  (fill in the blank)”.   And I don’t care if it’s on triple clearance either!  Find pieces that can be styled in various ways and be paired with several things in your closet.   Got it?

Now, go #justgetdressed 😉

Cheers,

Beth

 

 

by B.Styled

How To Stay Warm and Look Stylish in a Freezing Office

For this week’s Back to Work Monday, I’m answering this reader question from Barbara S.:

My office is freezing cold, especially in the winter — some of my co-workers literally wrap up in blankets or throw on a North Face fleece over their outfits. It doesn’t exactly scream competent and professional. Do you have any recommendations for how to dress and  look professional but also be warm?

Even if you live in a warmer climate, some offices are cold no matter what’s going on outside.  So  how can you stay warm while still looking professional and stylish? Here are some tips and shopping links.  Many of these items may  already be in your closet too!

You may have guessed that the key is LAYERS:

  1.  Cashmere and merino wool sweaters:   If most of your sweaters are cotton or a polyester blend, you may want to upgrade to cashmere or merino wool — I notice a huge difference in warmth.  Now is a great time of year to invest in your sweater collection – both of the linked sweaters are on sale and available in crew and v-neck.
  2. “Undershirts”:  I joke that I’m like a preschooler because I wear an undershirt most days.  I’m in love with this one because it’s smooth and stretchy and provides a perfect barrier between me and my blouses and sweaters (reducing my dry cleaning bills too).
  3. Cardigans-and Wraps: . You could wear a wool blazer with a merino or cashmere sweater, and if it’s really cold, throw a cashmere wrap or ruana around your shoulders.  It’s almost like wrapping up in a blanket, but definitely more polished looking;).  Here’s a great looking, 100% wool wrap  —  a less expensive alternative to cashmere, and  available in 6 colors.
  4. Long Cardigans:   Longer cardigans and sweater coats  can be a great for both warmth and good looks. You don’t want it to look like a bathrobe though, so choose wisely.  Make sure it fits well (petites —  look for styles that come in petite sizing).   A long cozy cardigan can be warm and chic –  and better looking than a down jacket;)

    Have a question you’d like me to address?  Feel free to drop me a note!    Now go #justgetdressed😉
    Cheers!
    Beth
by B.Styled

How to Cleanse Your Closet and Build a Wardrobe You Love

Happy New Year!

If you’re  like me, the beginning of the New Year has you in organizing, cleansing and decluttering mode.  Having too much “stuff” around can cause stress and crankiness, right?  Just looking at this picture (of my very own, pre-cleanse closet) makes me tense.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

Imagine starting the New Year with a clean and organized closet filled only with items that fit the body you have today, work for your lifestyle and make you feel confident,  comfortable and put together.
No more opening your closet door and feeling stressed out and annoyed by how jammed packed and disorganized it is –  yet still having “nothing to wear.”
This is my closet AFTER I followed my Closet Cleanse step-by-step process.

 

I don’t pretend to be an organizing guru.  However,  I developed the B.Styled Closet Cleanse program after spending years helping other women get their wardrobes under control and filled ONLY with items they love, need and actually wear.

Over the years I’ve read books and signed up for organization challenges and programs.  However, I’ve always found that what was missing was the real nitty gritty; the detailed, step-by-step tasks to keep me focused and on-track, and not overwhelmed.

I loved the message and intent behind Marie Kondo’s The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up and her philosophy that every item needs to be touched, keeping only those that “spark joy”.  What has kept me from implementing her program though is the thought of spending several consecutive days pulling every single thing out at one time. I understand the benefit of this approach, but for me it was too overwhelming and became an excuse to delay getting started.  .   

My own struggle with the process is what prompted me to create the B.Styled Closet Cleanse Program.

I’ve broken the Closet Cleanse down into very clear, simple, and manageable tasks that can be accomplished in 15 minute blocks of time.  The program includes a printable checklist (and just enough bossiness;) to keep you on track.

You can choose to do several 15 minutes tasks at one time, or do them daily as your schedule permits.  The program is designed so you don’t have to live in a state of total disarray during the process.   And although I had my clothing closet in mind when I developed the cleanse, I have applied the process to other closets and areas of my home as well.

CLICK HERE for more details and to sign up.  Included in the $14.99 fee is all the info you need:

  • A (very short & limited) list of simple, inexpensive supplies
  •  Instructions for each step in the process
  • A printable step-by-step checklist

I won’t lie, the Cleanse is the hard part, but it gives you the freedom to move on to the next stage which is the FUN part…Building a wardrobe you love.

This is where the B.Styled Wardrobe Challenges come in….Once you’ve ruthlessly purged your closet and gotten rid of all the stuff you don’t wear and don’t love, you can start to rebuild your wardrobe into one you will love and makes you feel confident and comfortable.

Here are some highlights of what the B.Styled Wardrobe Challenges can do for you:

Learn to shop with a purpose and gain confidence through easy “done for you” outfit formulas. It’s about changing your relationship with your clothes and through that, your relationship with yourself.

You can finally end the cycle of always having to buy more things, but finding you still don’t have what you really need or want.

B.Styled  Wardrobe Challenges give you everything need to shop smart and look stylish. You’ll know exactly what pieces you need to build a capsule wardrobe that works for most occasions, what the current trends are and how to choose things that fit your personal style and flatter your figure.

I provide the shopping list and show you exactly how to pair up the outfits. You pick the pieces and decide the budget.  Most of our members shop their closets first.

My goal is to empower you to take risks and discover your own unique style. You’ll get all the tools you need to build a capsule wardrobe of flexible, functional pieces that you can pair up in multiple ways.

If you’re ready to rebuild your wardrobe and try new styles outside of your comfort zone, I’d love to have you join us.  The Winter Challenge is going on now.  We’ve done one “round” of 21 outfits but because winter is really just kicking in now (and we’re having so much fun) we ‘re starting the cycle over again so you can jump in anytime!  

 

 

** For a Limited time you can join the B.Styled Winter Essentials Challenge, and get the CLOSET CLEANSE PROGRAM for FREE.   Click HERE for more info and to sign up!

I look forward to helping you B.Cleansed and B.Styled in 2017!

Cheers!
Beth
by B.Styled

Year End Round Up – B.Merry and B.Styled!

As 2016 comes to a close, I want to thank each and every one of you –  my customers, readers, and friends.  It’s because of you that I have been able to grow B.Styled and do what I love to do.  I hope that I’ve been able to help you in some way, whether through tips and outfit ideas, or a closet cleanse, or a #justgetdressed pep talk.

Thank you to everyone who took the time to email me or post on Facebook, sharing your questions, stories and struggles with me.  These notes, questions and stories are what drive me to do what I do.

The connection begins with fashion and getting dressed, but more often than not, it expands and grows into something more. Camaraderie. Friendship. Support & many laughs.

Looking back over the year, I feel so blessed.  I have learned  so much, personally and professionally, and have developed new friendships with so many amazing women because of B.Styled.

Looking ahead toward 2017,  I have lots of ideas for how I can support and help you – whether you’re near or far-  and make the process of getting dressed something you actually enjoy.

I wish each of you a fun, relaxing holiday surrounded by family and friends-— while wearing easy, comfortable clothes that make you feel confident and beautiful.

Here’s to a happy & healthy 2017!

xo, Beth

But wait!  Before you go…below is  a round up of some of my favorite and most popular blog posts of 2016.

YOUR NO-BRAINER HOLIDAY DRESSING FORMULA:  This one works for your holiday parties,  but you can also adapt it all year long – and never again stress over what to wear when you’re going out.

THE GROWN UP’S GUIDE TO LEGGINGS: There’s something to be said for “comfy pants” this time of year.  Here’s how to get it right.

SHE WHO STRUGGLES:.  This is a feature I plan to continue in 2017 along with my friend Karen Collins, owner of Bisousweet Confections.  If you don’t follow her blog, you need to…Trust me.  Even if you don’t like sugar or treats (??)  you will eat up her blog.

YOUR CLOTHING BUDGET: WHEN TO SPEND AND SAVE:   When it comes to building a functional wardrobe, less really is more.  Here are tips on how to allocate your hard earned dollars.

And finally, if you haven’t taken the plunge and joined one of my B.Styled Essentials Challenges, it’s not too late to jump in on the 2016-2017 Winter Challenge.  At $39, “plunge” is an exaggeration, but I promise you it’s money well spent and my goal is to make it worth every single penny.  Click HERE to learn more.

Don’t these ladies (who come all over the country) look amazing using this easy, chic outfit formula from the Winter  Challenge?

Here are some more ways to reach me and all that B.Styled has to offer:

  YouTube:  Find all my LIVE  Happy Hour videos.  One of my  New Year’s resolutions is to make these more…succinct.

  Instagram:  Outfit inspiration to help you #justgetdressed.

  I post daily on the B.Styled Personal Styling Facebook Page so like and follow me there.  You can also join my free, private #justgetdressed Facebook Group:  Ask questions, take free mini style challenges and enjoy a fun community of like-minded B.Stylers.

Pinterest:  Get outfit inspiration and more tips and ideas

This is my personal styling too that I use to provide affordable, personalized help to clients. .  Click HERE to learn more and get access to your own virtual closet and personalized recommendations.

Thanks for reading and I’ll see you in 2017!

Cheers!

~Beth